Comprehend Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐ค
comprehend
[หkษmprษชหhษnd ]
Definitions
mental process
To understand or grasp the meaning of something. To perceive the significance or importance of something. To have full knowledge or awareness of a situation.
Synonyms
apprehend, grasp, realize, understand.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| comprehend |
Used when someone fully understands the complexity or depth of a subject. It suggests a deeper, more thorough understanding.
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| understand |
The most general term used for knowledge or perception of a subject. Suitable for everyday use, it implies a basic or satisfactory level of knowledge.
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| grasp |
Commonly used when talking about understanding basic concepts or principles. It implies a more hands-on or practical understanding.
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| apprehend |
Primarily used in a formal or legal context, often related to the capture or arrest of someone. Can also mean to understand in a more intellectual sense, but this use is less common.
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| realize |
Used when someone suddenly becomes aware of something. This word often implies a moment of discovery or revelation.
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Examples of usage
- I couldn't comprehend the complexity of the problem.
- She struggled to comprehend the impact of her actions.
- It took me a while to comprehend the instructions.
linguistics
To interpret or understand the meaning of written or spoken language.
Synonyms
decipher, interpret, make sense of, understand.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| comprehend |
This word is often used in more formal settings or when referring to grasping complex or abstract ideas.
|
| interpret |
This word is used when explaining or providing one's own explanation of something, such as a piece of art, a law, or a behavior.
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| understand |
A widely used, neutral term appropriate for many contexts where someone grasps the meaning or significance of something.
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| decipher |
Use this word when referring to decoding something that is obscure or difficult to understand, such as a code, a puzzle, or unclear writing.
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| make sense of |
This phrase is commonly used in informal settings, referring to understanding something that is initially confusing.
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Examples of usage
- She tried to comprehend the foreign language text.
- He was able to comprehend the message despite the language barrier.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Psychology
- Cognitive psychology defines comprehension as a process where the brain makes sense of various information.
- Research indicates that comprehension is influenced by background knowledge; the more you know, the easier it is to understand new information.
- Comprehension skills are essential for reading, listening, and communication, impacting everything from learning to social interactions.
Education
- Comprehension is a key goal in literacy education, being essential for reading proficiency.
- Teachers often use strategies like summarizing and questioning to help students improve their understanding.
- There are different levels of comprehension, including literal understanding (what is stated), inferential (what can be deduced), and critical (evaluation and judgment).
Literature
- In literature, comprehension goes beyond just understanding words; it involves interpreting themes, emotions, and context.
- Classic texts often challenge readers' comprehension, prompting deeper analysis and discussion.
- Reading comprehension skills have been crucial in various literary movements, helping readers engage with complex narratives.
Pop Culture
- Television shows and movies often portray characters struggling to comprehend situations, underscoring the human experience of confusion.
- Popular talk shows often include segments on 'how to comprehend complex topics' in a fun way.
- Comprehension is a frequent theme in many songs, expressing emotions of misunderstanding or realization.
Origin of 'comprehend'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'comprehend' comes from the Latin 'comprehendere', which means 'to seize or grasp'.
- It was first used in English in the late 15th century to express the idea of understanding.
- The prefix 'com-' means 'together' and 'prehendere' means 'to grasp', which reflects the idea of grasping ideas together.
The word 'comprehend' originated from the Latin word 'comprehendere', which means 'to grasp or seize'. It was first used in the English language in the 14th century. Over time, the meaning evolved to include the understanding or perception of complex ideas or language.
See also: comprehended, comprehending, comprehendingly, comprehensibility, comprehensible, comprehension, comprehensive, comprehensiveness, incomprehensibility, incomprehensible, incomprehensibly.